Whether your boss has a messy desk or is constantly late for deadlines, you must remember to remain organized and professional to ensure productivity. I have also been effected by the curse of the disorganized boss. She would present deadlines the day before they were due, forgot about events, and constantly stressed out the whole entire workplace. Having a disorganized leader can result in a messy work environment and you must try your best to not let it affect your organizational skills. Here are some tips on how to deal with a disorganized boss:

 

Try to think of the strengths your boss possesses: 

It is very clear that your boss is disorganized, but what are the great qualities about them? Your boss is your boss for a reason, so think what areas of leadership your boss is particularly strong in. My boss was disorganized, but she was a creative thinker and obtained fabulous customer service skills. In all aspects of life, thinking about the positive things can overshadow focusing on the negative things. 

 

Be a problem solver, not a constant problem complainer: 

Instead of constantly complaining, find a solution to the problem. Whining about the issue will not change anything. You must not focus on the negative aspects of your job, or you will be repetitively miserable in your workplace.  Identify what areas your boss' disorganization affects you negatively, and try to improve those areas. For example, follow up with your boss about deadlines and assignments that may be due so they won't forget. Or you could buy your boss a desk organizer as a gift to motivate them to become more organized. Make sure to ask clear and concise questions when it comes to deadlines and projects, so there is no confusion in the workplace. Small gestures like these could help improve your boss' weaknesses as opposed to regularly complaining which could bring the whole company's moral down. 

 

Develop teams with your colleagues: 

Don't allow the disorganization of your boss to negatively affect your or your colleagues. Remain confident, positive, and organized. Remember, you guys are in this together. Create teams to help accomplish goals, deadlines, and you could also demonstrate your leadership skills. 

 

Offer your assistance, and then respectfully bring up the issue: 

First, attempt to help your boss. See if they need any help leading big projects to reduce their heavy workload. Offer to help organize their desk when you have free time or show them what techniques you do to stay organized. When and if the problem gets out of hand, do the unthinkable and have a respectful intervention with your boss. Produce factual evidence that shows the negative outcomes of a disorganized workplace.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

It is important when approaching your boss to come from a place of support. Make them aware of their strengths, and assure them that you all aware of how busy they are. They are people just like you, so make sure you speak to them with the respect they deserve. 

 

In conclusion:

Start with baby steps when attempting to manage your disorganized boss. Try to think of the positive aspects of your boss and your job because you can't change them. Try to understand that they are the boss, so they do have alot going on, it might be more difficult to stay organized. Lastly, remember organization starts at the root, and if you're not organized, your boss won't be either.